United Kingdom has officially recognized the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree offered by the Maldives National University's (MNU) School of Medicine, marking a significant achievement for medical education in the Maldives.

The recognition by the UK's General Medical Council (GMC) means graduates of MNU's MBBS program are now eligible to apply for the required licensing examinations needed to pursue medical careers in the United Kingdom.

Since its establishment, the School of Medicine has worked to strengthen academic standards and ensure its program meets international requirements.

Following a detailed review of the curriculum and supporting documentation, the GMC determined that the program satisfies its recognition standards.

Previously, Maldivian graduates seeking to sit for the UK's Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) examination were assessed individually.

The new recognition streamlines the process and provides graduates with a clearer pathway to professional opportunities in the UK.

According to MNU, the recognition request was submitted after growing interest among graduates in gaining international training and work experience.

The medical program is based on the curriculum of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and has been adapted to suit the Maldivian healthcare environment with technical support from the Malaysian institution.

In addition to receiving GMC recognition, MNU has also secured a place in the World Directory of Medical Schools, further enhancing the international standing of its medical programme.

The School of Medicine began operations in 2019 and has since produced four graduating batches.

University officials say efforts will continue to pursue recognition in other countries to expand opportunities for future Maldivian doctors.